2006 NFL Preview: The New York Giants

Quarterback- Eli Manning is starting to come into his own as a quarterback, but the Giants are expecting big things from Eli in 2006. With all of the weapons at his disposal, Manning should certainly be able to lead the Giants to a division title and deep into the NFL playoffs in 2006. Look for Manning to be equal to the task and start to either step out of the shadow of his brother Peyton or to use the shadow as a tool to motivate himself to play better. Manning will be backed up by Tim Hasselbeck, who is turning into a decent reserve quarterback in the NFL. The likely third quarterback will be either Josh Harris or Jared Lorenzen, with Lorenzen holding the edge at this point due to his experience with the Giants last season.
2006 NFL Grade: B+

Running back/ Full back- Tiki Barber is a grinding half back and one of the better runners in the league, especially considering his versatility as a receiver and blocker in pass situations. Barber will continue to do well in 2006 and will get help from an improving backup, Brandon Jacobs. Jacobs had a few critical mistakes last season, including a goal line fumble, but Jacobs is a big physical back that can ease some of the pressure off of Barber on an every game basis. Full back Jim Finn is hard working and will do well by Barber in blocking for him on the outside. The running game will be critical to the individual success of Eli Manning and for the Giants in general.
2006 NFL Grade: A-

Wide Receiver/Tight End- Jeremy Shockey will continue to develop into one of the league’s best receiving options and for the Giants they will be able to reap benefits off of increased coverage on Shockey. The Giants now have two solid deep threats in Plaxico Burress and rookie Sinorice Moss and a possession receiver like Amani Toomer. Manning should have no problem finding an open receiver in 2006 and look for Moss to have a big year by zipping past defensive backs on his way to the end zone quite a few times.
2006 NFL Grade: A-